Natasha Rothwell's 'How to Die Alone': A Journey of Self-Discovery

Natasha Rothwell is set to make her mark as a leading lady with the debut of her new Hulu comedy series "How to Die Alone" on September 13, 2024. The show, which Rothwell co-wrote and co-produced, represents a significant milestone in her career journey from writer to actor to showrunner.

The series follows Melissa "Mel" Jackson, a 35-year-old JFK Airport employee grappling with fears of flying and falling in love. Rothwell, now 44, drew inspiration from her own experiences and anxieties to create a character that resonates with viewers who may feel unseen or undervalued.

"I wanted to go towards the thing that scared me the most, which at the time was dying alone. I wanted to really explore the difference between being alone and loneliness because up until my early 20s I confused them often."

Rothwell's path to this leading role has been a long and winding one. After graduating from the University of Maryland with a theater degree, she worked as a drama teacher in the Bronx for four years. Her comedic skills were honed through improv performances at Upright Citizens Brigade and a stint in the writers' room of "Saturday Night Live" during the 2014-2015 season.

It was her role as Kelli Prenny on Issa Rae's "Insecure" that catapulted Rothwell into the spotlight. Her scene-stealing performance and quotable one-liners quickly made her a fan favorite. This success led to roles in films like "Love, Simon" and "Sonic the Hedgehog," as well as an Emmy-nominated turn as Belinda in "The White Lotus."

Recognizing the need for more diverse storytelling, Rothwell launched her own production company, Big Hattie Productions. Named after Hattie McDaniel, the first Black person to win an Academy Award in 1940, the company aims to tell nuanced stories reflecting the experiences of people of color.

The development of "How to Die Alone" comes at a challenging time for Black-led shows in the entertainment industry. Despite a surge in diverse programming following the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, many such shows have faced cancellation in recent years. Rothwell's success in bringing her vision to screen is a testament to her perseverance and talent.

Rothwell's approach to leadership in her writers' room reflects her commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment. The room boasts a diverse team of 11 writers, with a majority being women and people of color. Her creative process incorporates elements of fun and team-building alongside deep character exploration.

As Natasha Rothwell embraces her moment in the spotlight, she remains focused on self-care and personal growth. With "How to Die Alone," she invites viewers to join her on a journey of self-discovery, proving that sometimes the most rewarding relationships are the ones we forge with ourselves.